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Historical Fiction· Serbia

A Tomb for Boris Davidovich

by Danilo Kiš
Aggregate Editorial Score30/100
Published 1976Serbian
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About This Book

Few works of historical fiction have earned the sustained critical attention that A Tomb for Boris Davidovich (1976) by Danilo Kiš continues to receive. This collection of seven stories explores the lives of fictional characters caught in the political upheavals of Eastern Europe during the early 20th century. Kiš examines the absurdity and tragedy of totalitarian regimes, drawing on historical events and figures. The book is noted for its incisive critique of ideology and power, and its stylistic brilliance has cemented Kiš's reputation as a major literary figure. Themes of totalitarianism, absurdity, power run through the work.

Book Details

AuthorDanilo Kiš
Published1976
Country of Origin🇷🇸 Serbia
LanguageSerbian
Category🗺️ Historical Fiction
ISBN9780140186350
Editorial Score30/100
About the Category

🗺️ Historical Fiction

Novels set in the past, blending real events with fictional narratives.

Explore all Historical Fiction books →
Country of Origin

🇷🇸 Serbia

This book is part of Serbia's rich literary tradition.

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Editorial Assessment

First published in 1976, Danilo Kiš's A Tomb for Boris Davidovich is a work of historical fiction that has drawn sustained interest from critics and prize committees alike. Its engagement with totalitarianism, absurdity, power, identity gives the book a depth that extends well beyond its genre. The book's place in the literary record rests on its presence across major prize lists and critical surveys. Its aggregate editorial score of 30/100 reflects recognition from 1 independent editorial sources, from international prizes to specialist critical journals. What distinguishes A Tomb for Boris Davidovich is how it handles its central concerns — totalitarianism, absurdity, power, identity — without reducing them to neat conclusions. The book invites close reading and holds up well to it. A Tomb for Boris Davidovich reflects Danilo Kiš's place in a wider literary tradition. The book's concerns resonate with Serbia's broader cultural preoccupations, even as they reach beyond any single national context.
About this assessment: Editorial scores are aggregated from 1 independent sources including major literary prizes, critical surveys, and leading publications. Our editorial team reviews and contextualises this data. Rankings reflect critical consensus, not personal opinion or popularity metrics. Learn about our methodology.

Awards & Recognition

Guardian 100 Best Novels
list · global
20030
✍️
About the Author
Danilo Kiš
Serbia
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Danilo Kiš is a Serbia author whose work in historical fiction has earned recognition from readers and critics alike.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is A Tomb for Boris Davidovich about?

This collection of seven stories explores the lives of fictional characters caught in the political upheavals of Eastern Europe during the early 20th century. Kiš examines the absurdity and tragedy of totalitarian regimes, drawing on historical events and figures. The book is noted for its incisive critique of ideology and power, and its stylistic brilliance has cemented Kiš's reputation as a major literary figure.

Who wrote A Tomb for Boris Davidovich?

A Tomb for Boris Davidovich was written by Danilo Kiš, from Serbia. First published in 1976.

What awards has A Tomb for Boris Davidovich won?

A Tomb for Boris Davidovich has received the following recognition: notable critical recognition.

Is A Tomb for Boris Davidovich worth reading?

A Tomb for Boris Davidovich is a well-regarded book with an aggregate editorial score of 30/100 on 50 Best Books. It is particularly recommended for readers interested in totalitarianism, absurdity, power.

Where can I buy A Tomb for Boris Davidovich?

You can buy A Tomb for Boris Davidovich on Amazon. Click the Buy on Amazon button above to find the best edition.

What category is A Tomb for Boris Davidovich?

A Tomb for Boris Davidovich is classified as Historical Fiction. Novels set in the past, blending real events with fictional narratives.

What country is A Tomb for Boris Davidovich from?

A Tomb for Boris Davidovich originates from Serbia's literary tradition. Explore more books from Serbia on our country page.

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